race of Dudley, and that he bore their crest with that of
the Sidneys--a proud distinction.

If there had been jealousy in the Earl's heart when he saw his nephew
rising so rapidly to a foremost place in the esteem of all men--a place
which, with all his brilliant gifts, he secretly felt he never had
filled--it was subdued now.

He did not grudge him the praise his splendid achievement awoke, and, in
his despatch to the English Court, he gave the whole credit of the capture
of Axel to his nephew.

The Earl always took care to have the room he inhabited, whether for a
longer or a shorter time, luxuriously furnished.

If the word 'comfortable' does not apply to the appointments of those days,
there was abundance of grandeur in fine tapestry hangings, in
soft-cushioned seats, and in gold and silver plate on which the delicacies
that were attainable were served.

Sir Philip and Lady Frances were the Earl's guests, with the young Earl of
Essex and Mr Thomas Sidney. The elder brother, Robert, had been left in
command at Flushing with the nine hundred trusty soldiers Sir Philip had
left in the garrison there.

'What truth am I to attest?' Sir Philip asked, as he came up the room with
his quick, elastic step.

His wife went forward to meet him, and, clinging to his arm, said,--

'Our good uncle was consoling me for those words in my father's letter.'

'And on what ground did I console you, Frances?' the Earl said. 'You give
but half the truth; go on to say the rest.'

'Nay,' she said, hiding her face on Sir Philip's shoulder, as he put his
arm tenderly round her. 'Nay, there is no need--'

'To tell him he is happy to possess a loyal wife? You are right, dear
niece; he knows it full well.'

'Ay, to my joy and blessing,' was the answer. 'The favour of the Queen is,
I do not deny, precious; but there are things more precious even than that.
But, Frances, I come to tell you I think it is time we return to Flushing.
We have had many bright days here, but I must soon be at the work I came
hither to perform, and there is much to do, as you, my Lord, know full
well.'

'Ay, surely, but we need not be rash, or in too great haste.'

'The investment of Doesburg is imperative,' Sir Philip said, 'and, if we
wish to gain the mastery of the Yssel, this must be done. There are some
matters which cause me great uneasiness. Stores are short and money greatly
needed; nor do I put much faith in some of our allies. There is a mutinou